Microsoft is auto-downloading Windows 10 on PCs without user permission

Microsoft is automatically downloading between 3.5GB to 6GB of Windows 10 installation files onto PCs even without users opting for the upgrade.

According to a report by The Inquirer, one of its readers complained about a large folder labeled ‘$Windows.~BT’ taking up space on his PC.

He also added that the update shows up to install Windows 10 every time he starts his PC.

According to the report, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 is being downloaded to computers whether or not users have opted for it. However, the files being downloaded does not imply that Windows 10 is automatically installed.

But once they are present, Microsoft will prompt users to install the software every time a computer is rebooted.

The company stated, “For individuals who have chosen to receive automatic updates through Windows Update, we help upgradable devices get ready for Windows 10 by downloading the files they’ll need if they decide to upgrade.” Microsoft added, “When the upgrade is ready, the customer will be prompted to install Windows 10 on the device.”

This move by Microsoft can create a problem for users who may not have the space to download a large update or for those, who are not ready to upgrade yet.

Microsoft had earlier released the third cumulative patch for Window 10, and also announced that its latest operating system is now installed on 50 million devices.

It has now hit a new milestone with 75 million devices as it edges towards its target of 1 billion installations of Windows 10.